Luggage Fee Adjustment Explained
Effective February 16, 2026, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has rolled out a revised schedule for luggage fees, marking the first
adjustment in over four years. The corporation cited significant increases in operational costs, particularly concerning fuel prices and employee salaries, as the primary impetus for this change. This decision aims to reinforce the KSRTC's financial stability by bringing luggage fee revenues in line with escalating expenses. Notably, this revision follows a period where luggage charges were not adjusted concurrently with passenger fare increases in January 2025, making this a corrective measure to better reflect the current economic landscape and operational demands faced by the state-run transport service.
New Tiered Pricing Structure
The updated KSRTC luggage policy introduces a stage-based system for calculating charges, with a general increase of approximately 15%, aligning with the passenger fare hike from the previous year. Travelers are still entitled to carry up to 30 kg of luggage without incurring any additional cost. Fees are applicable only for weight exceeding this free allowance. The new rates are categorized by 'stages,' a traditional KSRTC method for measuring distance: journeys spanning stages 1 to 5 will cost Rs 6, stages 6 to 10 will be Rs 12, and stages 11 to 15 will cost Rs 20. This tiered structure continues to escalate with longer distances, reaching a maximum of Rs 145 for journeys covering 156 to 160 stages, ensuring that charges are proportionate to the distance traveled.
Operational Impact and Beyond
This latest revision in luggage charges, the first since December 2021, is anticipated to significantly contribute to the KSRTC's revenue streams, helping to navigate the current volatility in energy markets and other operational overheads. Beyond personal baggage, the KSRTC continues to facilitate the transport of various household items, such as washing machines, and even small domestic animals, provided there is adequate space available within the bus and the revised fees are duly paid. This flexible approach ensures that passengers can transport essential goods and pets while adhering to the new fare structure.
